Grant Raber

Parish: Christ the King, Moline

Birthdate: April 26

Seminary: Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary: Entered 2025, Class of 2032

Why did you become a seminarian?
Growing up, I lived much of my life lukewarm in the Faith. Nearing the end of my freshman year of college I had an encounter with a priest from the Diocese of Peoria. During that meeting I was able to share a lot of the struggles of my heart and experience the sacraments in a way that opened my eyes to a true life in Christ. I began to develop a life of prayer and a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. After a time of deeper discernment, I began to feel the call towards entering seminary and becoming a priest!

What did you do before seminary?
After graduating from Moline High School I was in college for two years prior to entering seminary. I first attended Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers, Florida, before transferring to Illinois State University in Normal. I studied exercise science and had an interest in getting a career as a strength and conditioning coach. While at Illinois State I was involved with the Newman ministries on campus, led a Bible study through FOCUS, and loved playing intramural sports with my buddies.

An interesting fact about you:
MI own a kayak and love to go bass fishing!